Articles Index

Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Poison Sumac

Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac are all part of the toxicodendron family. They are the most toxic plants in North America.

How Breathing Works

To understand why one gets short of breath or why rescue breathing isn't perfect, it's important to understand the anatomy and physiology of breathing.

How to Tell It's NOT a Brown Recluse

To identify a brown recluse, you need a really good microscope and an arachnologist.

Surf, Sand, and Safety

The beach is a blast, but it has its dangers. Make sure you're ready for the beach and prepared to stay safe at play.

Fundamental First Aid: The ABC's

There is no substitute for hands-on first aid training. But just in case you are challenged with someone in need and haven't had CPR or first aid classes, follow these basic steps.

Head Lice Treatment

Pictorial showing head lice treatment. How to recognize nits, apply shampoo and comb nits away. Head lice aren't as scary as our parents thought they were. Getting rid of head lice shouldn't be too hard.

First Aid for Anaphylaxis

One of the most dangerous medical conditions is a severe allergy called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can potentially affect as much as 15 percent of the population and is commonly fatal. Know how to recognize and treat anaphylaxis.

How to Control Bleeding

Most bleeding can be controlled before the ambulance gets there. Here are the steps to control bleeding.

How to Use a Tourniquet

Tie the tourniquet around the injured arm or leg, several inches above the injury (the part of the limb closer to the heart). If the injury is below the elbow or knee, it may be necessary to tie the tourniquet above the joint.

Tour of a First Aid Kit

The descriptions of first aid kit contents all list the same items, but what do you do with those items? Here is a description of the most common first aid kit contents and when they should be used.

First Aid Kits for Travel

Being on the road means taking your first aid supplies with you. The complexity of the first aid kit depends on where you're going.

Making an Ice Pack at Home

Ice packs help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Make an ice pack at home with common items. Never place ice directly on skin.

What You Need to Know About EpiPen use

EpiPen is an automatic injector of epinephrine used for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. Using the EpiPen is only partially about how to administer it; It's also important to check the expiration date and properly discard it when you are finished.

How to Treat a Cut Finger

First aid for cut fingers or other minor wounds mean keeping the injury clean more than stopping bleeding. These simple injuries can be treated at home with little more than an adhesive bandage and some soap.

Emergency Myths: Common Misconceptions About Ambulances and ERs

Here are some common mistaken assumptions about the use of ambulances and emergency rooms.

Making a Pillow Splint

Splinting an ankle can be difficult because of the shape. One way is to use a pillow to immobilize the injured ankle. These steps show how a pillow can be used to splint an ankle.

How to Splint a Foot

Splinting a foot requires immobilizing not only the foot, but the ankle as well. This type of splinting should provide enough support to get the victim to medical help.

Outdoor Safety: Avoiding Hypothermia

When the weather is extremely cold, and especially if there are high winds, try to stay indoors. Make any trips outside as brief as possible.